Image forming system

Abstract

An image forming system is provided with: a transport device that is provided with a plurality of gripping bodies on a surrounding member that surrounds the surrounding member and transports a medium gripped by the gripping bodies in accordance with the surrounding of the surrounding member; a forming device that forms an image on the medium conveyed by the conveying device; and a processor that, in an association mode, performs image formation based on the forming apparatus starting from a medium held by a specific holding body among the plurality of holding bodies.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming system. Background Art

[0002] For example, Japanese Patent Gazette No. 2023-031856 discloses an image forming device, which includes a barrel component and an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium conveyed by the barrel component, wherein the barrel component includes: a substantially cylindrical barrel body having a recess; a sheet component having a metal layer and an outer layer wound on and in contact with the barrel body; a first mounting component that is disposed on the metal layer at one end of the sheet component and is removably mounted on one side of the recess; a second mounting component that is disposed at an end of the metal layer at the other end of the sheet component and is removably mounted on the other side of the recess; a tension-applying screw that stretches the second mounting component in a depth direction of the recess to apply tension to the metal layer; a positioning pin that is disposed on the second mounting component; and a positioning hole for the positioning pin formed at the end of the metal layer to be engaged. Summary of the invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming system including a plurality of gripping bodies, in which a medium on which an image is to be formed and a gripping body that grips the medium can be associated with each other.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming system comprising: a conveying device having a plurality of holding bodies arranged on a surrounding member, and conveying a medium held by the holding bodies as the surrounding member surrounds; a forming device, forming an image on the medium conveyed by the conveying device; and a processor, which, in an association mode, performs image formation based on the forming device starting from a medium held by a specific holding body among the plurality of holding bodies.

[0005] According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of the first aspect, there is also a display unit, and the processor associates the image formed on the medium transmitted by each of the multiple holding bodies with identification information for identifying each of the holding bodies and displays it on the display unit.

[0006] According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of the first or second aspect, the processor attaches identification information for identifying each of the multiple holding bodies to each of the media for the forming device to perform image formation, and causes each of the multiple holding bodies associated with the identification information to transmit the medium to which the identification information is attached.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of the second or third aspect, the processor, upon receiving an instruction to exclude the designated holding body, uses a holding body other than the designated holding body to transfer the medium.

[0008] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of the second or third aspect, when the processor receives an instruction to replace the specific holding body, it stops the surrounding member at a position where the specific holding body can be replaced.

[0009] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of any one of the first to fifth aspects, there is also a measuring device, which is arranged on the downstream side of the conveying path of the medium than the conveying device, and measures the medium with an image formed thereon, and the processor specifies the defective holding body based on the association information between the multiple holding bodies and the medium and the measurement result of the measuring device.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the image forming system of the sixth aspect further comprises a display unit, and when the processor identifies the defective holding body, the processor displays identification information of the defective holding body on the display unit.

[0011] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of the sixth or seventh aspect, when the processor identifies the defective holding body, it uses another holding body other than the defective holding body to transfer the medium.

[0012] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system of the sixth or seventh aspect, when the processor recognizes the presence of the defective holding body, it stops the surrounding component at a position where the defective holding body can be replaced.

[0013] (Effect)

[0014] According to the first aspect, in the image forming system including the transport device having a plurality of grippers, it is possible to associate the medium on which the image is formed with the grippers that grip the medium.

[0015] According to the second aspect, the image and identification information displayed on the display unit enable the user to associate the medium with the grip.

[0016] According to the third aspect, the image and identification information formed on the medium enable the user to associate the medium with the holding body.

[0017] According to the fourth aspect, the image forming system can continue forming an image when receiving an instruction to exclude a designated holding body.

[0018] According to the fifth aspect, when an instruction to replace a specific holding body is received, it is easier to replace the designated holding body than in a case where the surrounding member is stopped without determining the stop position of the holding body.

[0019] According to the sixth aspect, a defective holding body can be automatically identified.

[0020] According to the seventh aspect, when a defective grip body is identified, the user can be made aware of the defect of the grip body displayed on the display unit.

[0021] According to the eighth aspect, even when the presence of a defective gripping body is recognized, image formation can be continued.

[0022] According to the ninth aspect, the defective gripping body can be replaced more easily than when the defective gripping body is identified without determining the stop position of the gripping body and stopping the surrounding member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figure 1 is a front cross-sectional view illustrating an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 is a front cross-sectional view for explaining the structure of the image forming unit and the conveying unit of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a chain clamp according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 A diagram for explaining the structure of a control unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the associated steps of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 is a diagram showing a recording medium formed in the associated steps of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing a procedure for coping with a problem according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing related steps of a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a screen displayed on a display unit in a correlation step according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Fig.10 is a flowchart showing the associated steps of a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing a procedure for coping with a problem according to the second embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] An example of an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in each of the drawings, the same reference symbols are marked for the same or equivalent components and parts. In addition, for the convenience of explanation, the dimensional ratios of the drawings are exaggerated and sometimes different from the actual ratios. In addition, when it is necessary to distinguish between one side and the other side of the device in the vertical direction, the device width direction, and the device depth direction, the upper side is recorded as the +H side, the lower side is recorded as the -H side, the right side is recorded as the +W side, the left side is recorded as the -W side, the inner side is recorded as the -D side, and the front side is recorded as the +D side.

[0035] In the following description, a user is a person who uses an image forming apparatus to produce printed materials, and an operator is a person who performs repair work on the image forming apparatus. There is no limit to the number of users and operators, and they may concurrently perform duties.

[0036] [First embodiment]

[0037] (Image Forming Apparatus)

[0038] The image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment is an example of the image forming system of the present invention, and is an electrophotographic image forming apparatus that forms a toner image on a recording medium P as an example of a medium. Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming apparatus 10 includes a storage unit 12, a first supply unit 14, a second supply unit 15, an image forming unit 20 as an example of a forming device of the present invention, a discharge unit 16, a branch unit 17, and a discharged unit 18. In addition, the image forming apparatus 10 includes an imaging device 92 as an example of a measuring device of the present invention, a control unit 19 that controls each unit, a chain gripper 50 as an example of a conveying device of the present invention, and a fixing unit 40 that fixes a toner image formed on a recording medium on the recording medium. In addition, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a first conveying unit 50a and a second conveying unit 50b.

[0039] In addition, the image forming apparatus 10 further includes a housing 10a for housing various parts. The housing 10a houses the image forming part 20. In addition, the housing 10a houses the first supply part 14, the second supply part 15, the discharge part 16, and the branch part 17. In addition, the details of the housing 10a will be described later. In addition, as an example, the recording medium P of this embodiment is a sheet member such as paper.

[0040] (Frame)

[0041] The frame 10a has a rectangular parallelepiped frame and walls covering each surface of the frame. The walls of the frame 10a facing the device width direction and the device depth direction are called side walls. In addition, the wall of the frame 10a covering the surface on the -H side is called the bottom wall.

[0042] The frame 10a has a plurality of legs (not shown) on the bottom frame that can arbitrarily extend or retract the height of the device in the vertical direction. The frame 10a has a function of adjusting the position of the device in the vertical direction by extending or retracting each leg in the vertical direction.

[0043] (Storage Department)

[0044] The storage section 12 has a function of storing the recording medium P. In the image forming apparatus 10, four storage sections 12 are provided. It is set as a structure that the recording medium P is selectively fed out from the four storage sections 12. In this embodiment, two storage sections 12 are arranged in a state in the vertical direction of the apparatus in the frame 10a. In addition, the other two storage sections 12 are arranged in a state in the width direction of the apparatus in the frame 10a.

[0045] (First Supply Department)

[0046] The first supply unit 14 has a function of conveying the recording medium P stored in the storage unit 12 of the housing 10 a using a plurality of conveying rollers (not shown) disposed on the housing 10 a and supplying the recording medium P to the image forming unit 20 of the housing 10 a .

[0047] (Second Supply Department)

[0048] The second supply unit 15 has the following functions: using the frame 10a and a plurality of conveying rollers (not shown) disposed on the frame 10a, the second supply unit 15 conveys the recording medium P stored in the storage unit 12 of the frame 10a, merges with the first supply unit 14, and supplies the recording medium P toward the image forming unit 20 of the frame 10a. The second supply unit 15 merges with the first supply unit 14 in the vertical direction of the device through a branch unit 17 described later and the storage unit 12.

[0049] (Image Forming Section)

[0050] The image forming unit 20 is disposed in the housing 10 a and has a function of forming an image on the recording medium P by electrophotography. The image forming unit 20 includes a photoreceptor unit 23 for forming a toner image and a transfer device 30 for transferring the toner image formed by the photoreceptor unit 23 to the recording medium P.

[0051] The first conveying section 50a and the second conveying section 50b are each composed of a plurality of conveying rollers (not shown). The first conveying section 50a is connected to the first supply section 14, and conveys the recording medium P supplied from the supply section 14 to the frame 10a along the device width direction (horizontal direction) toward the receiving position D1 of the chain gripper 50. The second conveying section 50b is connected to the discharge section 16, and conveys the recording medium P to which the toner image is fixed by the fixing section 40 toward the discharge section 16 of the frame 10a along the device width direction (horizontal direction).

[0052] The photoreceptor units 23 are provided in plurality so as to form a toner image for each color. In the present embodiment, the photoreceptor units 23 for four colors, namely yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), are provided. Figure 1 The Y, M, C, and K shown here represent components corresponding to the above-mentioned respective colors. In addition, when the colors (Y, M, C, and K) are not particularly distinguished, the letters at the end are omitted and described.

[0053] 〔Photoreceptor unit〕

[0054] The photosensitive body units 23Y, M, C, and K (23Y, 23M, 23C, and 23K) are basically configured in the same manner except that they use different toners.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the photosensitive body units 23Y, M, C, and K are arranged along the inclined portion of a transfer belt 31 (described in detail later) of the transfer device 30 .

[0056] like Figure 2 As shown, the photosensitive body unit 23 includes a photosensitive drum 24 that rotates in the direction of arrow A02 in the figure and a charger 26 that charges the photosensitive drum 24. In addition, the photosensitive body unit 23 includes an exposure device 28 that exposes the photosensitive drum 24 charged by the charger 26 to form an electrostatic latent image and a developing device 29 that develops the electrostatic latent image using a toner to form a toner image.

[0057] 〔Transfer device〕

[0058] The transfer device 30 has the function of overlapping the toner images of the photosensitive drums 24 of various colors on the intermediate transfer body for primary transfer, and secondarily transferring the overlapped toner images to the recording medium P. Specifically, Figure 2As shown, the transfer device 30 includes a transfer belt 31 as an intermediate transfer body, a plurality of rollers 32 , a primary transfer roller 34 , a secondary transfer roller 33 , and a transfer body 36 .

[0059] The transfer belt 31 is formed in an endless shape, and is wound around a plurality of rollers 32 so as to form a substantially inverted triangle shape. The transfer belt 31 is driven to rotate by at least one of the plurality of rollers 32, and is wound in the arrow X direction.

[0060] The primary transfer roller 34 is a roller-shaped member disposed on the opposite side of the photosensitive drum 24 of each color across the transfer belt 31. The primary transfer roller 34 has a function of transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 24 to the transfer belt 31 at the primary transfer position T between the photosensitive drum 24 and the primary transfer roller 34.

[0061] The secondary transfer roller 33 is a roller-shaped member disposed between the roller 32 on the -W side and the roller 32 on the -H side of the roller 32 on which the transfer belt 31 is wound in a substantially inverted triangle shape, and in such a manner that the inner side of the transfer belt 31 contacts the transfer belt 31. The transfer body 36 is a roller-shaped member extending in the depth direction of the device and disposed on the side opposite to the secondary transfer roller 33 across the transfer belt 31. The secondary transfer roller 33 and the transfer body 36 have a function of transferring the toner image transferred to the transfer belt 31 to the recording medium P at the secondary transfer position NT between the transfer belt 31 and the transfer body 36.

[0062] 〔Chain clamp〕

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the chain clamp 50 includes a pair of chains 51, a gripper 56 for holding the leading end of the recording medium P, and sprockets 52, 53, and 54. The chain 51 is an example of a winding member. A plurality of grippers 56 are provided at intervals in the winding direction of the chain 51.

[0064] A pair of chains 51 are arranged separately in the depth direction of the device, and the chains 51 are formed into a loop. Moreover, the pair of chains 51 are wound around a pair of sprockets 52 arranged at both ends of the long side direction (axial direction) of the transfer body 36 and with the long side direction as the axial direction. In addition, the pair of chains 51 are wound around a pair of sprockets 53 arranged at both ends of the long side direction (axial direction) of the pressure roller 42 described later and with the long side direction as the axial direction. In addition, as Figure 2 As shown, a pair of chains 51 are wound around a pair of sprockets 54 that are arranged at a distance from each other in the depth direction of the device.

[0065] The sprockets 53 arranged on both sides of the pressure roller 42 in the longitudinal direction are arranged on the -W side and the +H side with respect to the sprockets 52 arranged on both sides of the transfer body 36 in the longitudinal direction.

[0066] In addition, when viewed from the depth direction of the device, the pair of sprockets 54 are arranged below the sprockets 52 and 53 and on the sprocket 52-W side and on the sprocket 53+W side. In addition, a conveying roller (not shown) coaxial with the pair of sprockets 54 is arranged between the pair of sprockets 54.

[0067] In addition, in this embodiment, if Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , as an example, six gripping bodies 56 are provided, namely, a first gripping body 56A to a sixth gripping body 56F. Figure 2 As shown, the first gripping body 56A to the sixth gripping body 56F are installed in sequence in the circumferential direction. The positions of the first gripping body 56A to the sixth gripping body 56F in the circumferential direction in their respective chain clamps 50 are grasped by the control unit 19 described later. The method by which the control unit 19 grasps the position in the circumferential direction may be any method. As an example, a method is adopted in which a mark read by a sensor not shown is provided on the first gripping body 56A, and the circumferential position of the first gripping body 56A is recognized by reading the mark by the sensor. In addition, in the following description, when the first gripping body 56A to the sixth gripping body 56F are not particularly distinguished, they are simply referred to as the gripping body 56. In addition, the intervals in the circumferential direction of each of the first gripping body 56A to the sixth gripping body 56F are equal to each other.

[0068] The gripping body 56 extends in the device depth direction and includes a plurality of clamps 57 . Portions on both sides of the gripping body 56 in the device depth direction are respectively mounted on a pair of chains 51 .

[0069] The clamper 57 is mounted on the holding body 56 at a predetermined interval along the depth direction of the device. The clamper 57 has a function of holding the leading end of the recording medium P. Specifically, the clamper 57 has a claw 57a. In addition, the holding body 56 is formed with a contact portion 58 with which the claw 57a contacts.

[0070] The clamper 57 is configured to hold the front end of the recording medium P between the claw 57a and the contact portion 58. The clamper 57 presses the claw 57a to the contact portion 58 by a spring or the like, and engages and disengages the claw 57a relative to the contact portion 58 by a cam or the like.

[0071] In this structure, by Figure 2 The rotational force is transmitted to any one of the plurality of sprockets 52 , 53 , and 54 shown, and the pair of chains 51 are wound in the direction of arrows in the figure so as to move from the sprocket 52 side to the sprocket 53 side.

[0072] Furthermore, when the holding body 56 mounted on the pair of chains 51 reaches the receiving position D1 at the lower end of the sprocket 54, the clamp 57 of the holding body 56 holds and receives the recording medium P by clamping the front end of the recording medium P conveyed along the first supply section 14 and the first conveying section 50a. Then, the chain 51 that is circling in the direction of arrow C transfers the toner image onto the recording medium P by conveying the recording medium P held by the holding body 56 to the secondary transfer position NT. Furthermore, the circling chain 51 fixes the toner image on the recording medium P by conveying the recording medium P from the secondary transfer position NT to the fixing section 40. In addition, when the front end of the recording medium P passes the delivery position D2 of the fixing section 40, the holding body 56 releases the holding of the front end of the recording medium P, and the chain clamp 50 delivers the recording medium P to the second conveying section 50b and the discharge section 16.

[0073] 〔Fixing Department〕

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG. 1 , the fixing section 40 is disposed on the downstream side of the transfer body 36 in the conveying direction of the recording medium P.

[0075] The fixing unit 40 includes a heating roller 44 that contacts the conveyed recording medium P to heat the recording medium P, and a pressure roller 42 that presses the recording medium P toward the heating roller 44 .

[0076] The heating roller 44 is a roller-shaped member that contacts the upward surface of the recording medium P being transported and is arranged with the axial direction as the depth direction of the device and extending in the depth direction of the device. In addition, in the depth direction of the device, shaft portions extending in the depth direction of the device are formed at both ends of the heating roller 44, and support members are provided to support the shaft portions. In addition, the heating roller 44 is heated by a driven roller having a heater (not shown).

[0077] The pressure roller 42 is a roller-shaped member that contacts the downward surface of the conveyed recording medium P on the opposite side of the heating roller 44 across the conveyed recording medium P and is arranged with its axial direction as the apparatus depth direction and extending in the apparatus depth direction.

[0078] In this structure, the pressure roller 42 presses the recording medium P toward the heating roller 44. In addition, the pressure roller 42 is rotated by receiving a rotational force from a driving member (not shown). Moreover, the heating roller 44 is rotated by the rotating pressure roller 42. In addition, the heating roller 44 and the pressure roller 42 sandwich and convey the recording medium P to which the toner image is transferred, so that the toner image is heated and fixed to the recording medium P.

[0079] (Discharge section)

[0080] The discharge section 16 has a function of discharging the recording medium P on which the toner image is fixed by the fixing section 40 and is transported, from a discharge port provided on the side of the housing 10a. In the present embodiment, the recording medium P on which the toner image is fixed by the fixing section 40 and is transported is delivered to the extended discharge section 16a provided on the housing 10a and is discharged to the discharge section 18 provided outside the housing 10a.

[0081] (Branch)

[0082] The branching portion 17 is provided to branch from the discharge portion 16 of the housing 10a, and has a function of switching the front end and the rear end of the recording medium P conveyed to the branching portion 17 and merging them with the first supply portion 14. Specifically, the branching portion 17 has a function of converting the conveying direction of the recording medium P conveyed from the discharge portion 16 to the branching portion 17 to a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the discharge portion 16 on the downstream side of the fixing portion 40.

[0083] The branching portion 17 is arranged above the storage portion 12 in the frame 10a. The recording medium P conveyed to the branching portion 17 and joined to the first supply portion 14 is conveyed to the secondary transfer position NT in a state where the front and back surfaces of the recording medium P are reversed compared to before conveying to the branching portion 17 by exchanging the front and back surfaces of the recording medium P. That is, the recording medium P conveyed to the branching portion 17 and joined to the first supply portion 14 and conveyed to the secondary transfer position NT has a toner image transferred to a surface (back surface) different from the surface (front surface) on which the toner image is formed before conveying to the branching portion 17.

[0084] (Camera device)

[0085] The imaging device 92 is provided in the branch section 17 and is a so-called inline sensor that images the recording medium P conveyed after the toner image is fixed by the fixing section 40. The imaging device 92 includes a plurality of measurement sensors and transmits image data of the captured recording medium P to the control section 19 as a measurement result.

[0086] (Control Department)

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the control unit 19 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 19A as an example of a processor, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 19B used as a temporary work area of ​​the CPU 19A. In addition, the control unit includes a nonvolatile memory 19C storing a control program for making it function as the control unit 19, and an input / output interface (I / O) 19E. The CPU 19A, RAM 19B, nonvolatile memory 19C, and I / O 19E are connected via a bus 19D.

[0088] Thus, a dedicated processor and memory for executing each process are allocated to the control unit 19. The CPU 19A reads a control program from the nonvolatile memory 19C and executes overall control of the image forming apparatus 10 by the control unit 19.

[0089] The nonvolatile memory 19C is an example of a storage device that maintains stored information even if the power supplied is cut off, and a semiconductor memory is used, but a hard disk may also be used. In addition, the nonvolatile memory 19C records the association mode described later and the program that causes the CPU 19A to execute the association mode.

[0090] Furthermore, the communication unit 64 , the input unit 62 , the display unit 60 , and the image forming unit 20 are connected to the I / O 19E.

[0091] The communication unit 64 is connected to a communication line and has a communication protocol for transmitting and receiving data with an external device (not shown) connected to the same communication line. The communication unit 64 performs data communication with the external device according to the instruction of the CPU 19A in the control unit 19.

[0092] The input unit 62 is a device that receives instructions from the user and notifies the CPU 19A of the control unit 19 of the received instructions. Figure 2 As shown, use buttons, touch panels, pointing devices, etc.

[0093] The display unit 60 is an example of a display device that displays information processed by the image forming apparatus 10 , and uses, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 60 displays information according to instructions from the CPU 19A in the control unit 19 .

[0094] Each component connected to the I / O 19E is an example, and components corresponding to the functions of the image forming apparatus 10 are connected. The component refers to an execution unit that executes processing under the control of a processor such as the CPU 19A and the RAM 19B.

[0095] However, in the gripping body 56, there are problems such as uneven forces of the clamps 57 to clamp the recording medium P, or a timing of clamping the recording medium P in a specific clamp 57 being inconsistent with that in other clamps 57. In addition, when such a problem occurs in the gripping body 56, the recording medium P is held in a flexed state by the gripping body 56 at the receiving position D1, and thus the toner image formed by the image forming unit 20 is transferred from a position deviated from an expected position relative to the recording medium P. Then, the recording medium P to which the toner image is transferred in a deviated state is conveyed to the fixing unit 40, and the toner image is fixed in a deformed state.

[0096] Here, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the user operates the control unit 19 to cause the CPU 19A to read the program stored in the nonvolatile memory 19C and execute the associated mode shown below. In the following description, the Nth recording medium P refers to the Nth recording medium P taken out of the plurality of recording media P taken out from the storage unit 12.

[0097] (Association Mode)

[0098] First, refer appropriately Figure 5 to Figure 7 , the operation performed by the CPU 19A of the control unit 19 in the association mode of this embodiment is described. In the association mode, the CPU 19A executes the association step and the failure response step. In the association mode, a number of recording media P greater than the number of gripping bodies 56 (six in this embodiment) is prepared in advance in the storage unit 12. Then, the CPU 19A executes Figure 5 The process shown.

[0099] In addition, the toner image of this embodiment refers to an image including characters and character strings in addition to symbols and drawings. In this embodiment, the Nth image refers to a toner image formed with a number corresponding to the value of N. In this embodiment, the number corresponding to the variable N is transferred as a toner image on the Nth recording medium P.

[0100] In addition, in this embodiment, in the Nth image, Figure 6 The identification information 70 shown is attached to the corner. In the present embodiment, as an example, the identification information 70 is a number that distinguishes the first gripping body 56A to the sixth gripping body 56F. As an example, the number "1" in the identification information 70 corresponds to the first gripping body 56A, and the number "2" corresponds to the second gripping body 56B. Similarly, the numbers "3" to "6" correspond to the third gripping body 56C to the sixth gripping body 56F, respectively.

[0101] First, in step S102, the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the first recording medium P. In addition, the CPU 19A prepares variables N and L in the RAM 19B. In addition, the variables N and L are both integer variables. In addition, the CPU 19A substitutes 1 into the variables N and L to initialize the variable N. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S104.

[0102] Next, in step S102 , the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the first recording medium P. In other words, the CPU 19A starts image formation by the image forming unit 20 from the recording medium P gripped by a specific gripping body 56 among the plurality of gripping bodies 56 . Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S104 .

[0103] Next, the CPU 19A causes the image forming unit 20 to form an Nth image including the identification information 70 corresponding to the value of the variable N in step S104. Then, the Nth image including the identification information 70 is transferred onto the recording medium P corresponding to the value of the variable N at the time of step S104. For example, when the variable N is 1, the CPU 19A forms the first image and transfers the first image onto the first recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 2, the CPU 19A forms the second image and transfers the second image onto the second recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 6, the CPU 19A forms the sixth image and transfers it onto the sixth recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 7, the CPU 19A forms the seventh image and transfers it onto the seventh recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 8, the CPU 19A forms the eighth image and transfers it onto the eighth recording medium P.

[0104] In addition, the identification information 70 is a number corresponding to the value of the variable L at the time point of step S104. That is, when the variable L is 1, the number "1" is included in the Nth image as the identification information 70, and when the variable L is 2, the number "2" is included in the Nth image as the identification information 70. Here, as described above, the Nth recording medium P is conveyed by the Lth gripping body 56, so the number corresponding to the variable L identifies each of the multiple gripping bodies 56 of the present embodiment. In other words, the CPU 19A causes each of the multiple gripping bodies 56 associated with the identification information 70 to convey the recording medium P to which the identification information 70 is attached. Then, the recording medium P to which the colorant image is transferred is fixed by the fixing unit 40 and is discharged through the discharge unit 16 of the image forming device 10. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S106.

[0105] Next, the CPU 19A compares the value of N with a preset value in step S106. If the value of N is smaller than the preset value, a positive determination is made in step S106, and the process proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, if the value of N is larger than the preset value, a negative determination is made in step S106, and a series of processes are terminated.

[0106] Next, in step S108 , the CPU 19A increments the variable N (increases the value of the variable N by 1). Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S110 .

[0107] Next, in step S110, the CPU 19A substitutes the value obtained by repeatedly subtracting 6 from the value of the variable N until it becomes less than 7 into the variable L. For example, when the variable N is 1, 1 is substituted into the variable L, and when the variable N is 6, 6 is substituted into the variable L. In addition, when the variable N is 8, the value obtained by subtracting 6 from 8, that is, 2, is substituted into the variable L. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S112.

[0108] Next, in step S112, the CPU 19A causes the gripping body 56 corresponding to the value of the variable L to grip the Nth recording medium P delivered from the storage section 12. For example, when the variable N is 2, the CPU 19A causes the second gripping body 56B to grip the second recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 6, the CPU 19A causes the sixth gripping body 56F to grip the sixth recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 7, the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the seventh recording medium P, and when the variable N is 8, the CPU 19A causes the second gripping body 56B to grip the eighth recording medium P. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S104.

[0109] Then, after the above process is completed, Figure 6 As shown, the user compares the respective N-th images formed on the first to N-th recording media P ejected from the image forming apparatus 10 and confirms the deformation of the N-th image formed on the recording medium P. In addition, Figure 6 The lead lines (symbol "...") in the figure indicate omission. For example, in this embodiment, Figure 6 As shown, the toner images of "2", "8", and "14" (the second image, the eighth image, and the fourteenth image) are fixed as deformed toner images, so the user determines that the second gripping body 56B conveying the recording medium P is defective. In this way, when the user determines that there is a defect in any gripping body 56 based on the image fixed on the recording medium P and the identification information 70, the user can identify the gripping body 56 in which the defect occurs by checking the identification information 70 attached to the image.

[0110] Here, when the user identifies the holder 56 of the recording medium P having a deformation in the transmission image, the CPU 19A is caused to perform the following operations. Figure 7 Perform the next adverse response step as shown.

[0111] (Steps to deal with adverse events)

[0112] First, in step S202, CPU 19A receives input of the number of the defective gripping body 56. In the above example, the user determines that the second gripping body 56B is defective, so the user inputs the number "2" of the gripping body 56 to the input unit 62. Then, CPU 19A receives that the second gripping body 56B is defective. Then, CPU 19A proceeds to step S204.

[0113] Next, in step S204, CPU 19A displays the number of the defective grip 56 on display unit 60 to make the user of image forming apparatus 10 and the operator, including the user who input the number of grip 56, aware of the defect of grip 56. Then, CPU 19A proceeds to step S206.

[0114] Next, in step S206, CPU19A determines whether to continue printing. More specifically, CPU19A determines whether to accept a print job for forming another image. This determination may be based on a pre-set setting, or may be accepted by an instruction input by the user. Then, in the case of a negative determination in step S206, CPU19A proceeds to step S208. On the other hand, in the case of a positive determination in step S206, CPU19A proceeds to step S212.

[0115] Then, when entering step S208, CPU19A receives an instruction to replace the defective gripping body 56. Then, when receiving an instruction to replace the defective gripping body 56, CPU19A makes an affirmative judgment and enters step S210. On the other hand, when not receiving an instruction to replace the defective gripping body 56 (including receiving an instruction not to replace), CPU19A makes a negative judgment and ends a series of processes.

[0116] Then, when CPU19A enters step S210, CPU19A prohibits accepting print jobs that form other images. In addition, in step S210, CPU19A stops the conveying unit 50a at a position to replace the defective holding body 56. More specifically, CPU19A rotates the chain 51 of the conveying unit 50a so that the operator can replace the defective second holding body 56B received in step S202, and reminds the operator to replace the second holding body 56B. In other words, CPU19A receives an instruction to replace the designated second holding body 56B in step S210. Then, when CPU19A receives an instruction to replace the designated second holding body 56B, it stops the chain 51 at a position where the specific holding body 56 can be replaced. Then, CPU19A ends a series of processes.

[0117] On the other hand, when entering step S212, CPU19A allows acceptance of print jobs for forming other images. In addition, in step S212, CPU19A executes print jobs for forming other images by causing the conveying unit 50a to convey the recording medium P using the gripping body 56 other than the defective gripping body 56. In the above example, CPU19A executes the print job by conveying the recording medium P using the other five gripping bodies 56 except the second gripping body 56B. In other words, CPU19A accepts an instruction to exclude the designated second gripping body 56B in step S212. Then, when receiving a subsequent print job, CPU19A conveys the recording medium P using the other gripping bodies 56 except the second gripping body 56B to which the instruction to exclude is received. Then, CPU19A ends a series of processes.

[0118] In the present embodiment, in step S204 , step S210 , or step S212 , CPU 19A may display on display unit 60 a message or the like prompting replacement of defective gripping body 56 .

[0119] According to the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the following operations and effects can be obtained.

[0120] (Function and Effect)

[0121] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, in the association mode, the CPU 19A starts image formation by the image forming unit 20 from the first recording medium P gripped by the first gripping body 56A among the plurality of gripping bodies 56. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 10 having the chain gripper 50 having the plurality of gripping bodies 56, the recording medium P on which an image is to be formed can be associated with the gripping body 56 gripping the recording medium P.

[0122] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the CPU 19A attaches the identification information 70 for identifying each of the plurality of gripping bodies 56 to each of the recording media P for image formation by the image forming unit 20. In the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, each of the plurality of gripping bodies 56 associated with the identification information 70 is further caused to transfer the recording medium P to which the identification information 70 is attached. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the user can associate the recording medium P with the gripping body 56 (specifically identify the gripping body 56 having a defect) by using the image formed on the recording medium P and the identification information 70.

[0123] In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when the CPU 19A receives an instruction to exclude the designated holding body 56, it uses another holding body 56 other than the designated holding body 56 to convey the recording medium P. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 10 receives an instruction to exclude the designated holding body 56, it is possible to accept a print job and continue forming an image.

[0124] In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when receiving an instruction to replace a specific gripping body 56, the CPU 19A stops the chain 51 at a position where the specific gripping body 56 can be replaced. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, it is easier to replace the designated gripping body 56 than in a case where the chain 51 is stopped without determining the stop position of the gripping body 56 when receiving an instruction to replace the specific gripping body 56.

[0125] Next, refer to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 A first modified example of the present embodiment will be described. The configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 of the first modified example is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0126] <First Modification>

[0127] (Association Mode)

[0128] In the association mode of this variation, CPU 19A executes Figure 8 In the present modification, the toner image is formed without including the identification information 70, unlike the first embodiment.

[0129] First, in step S302, the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the first recording medium P. In addition, the CPU 19A prepares variables N and L in the RAM 19B. In addition, the variables N and L are both integer variables. Then, the CPU 19A substitutes 1 into the variables N and L to initialize the variable N. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S304.

[0130] Next, in step S304, the CPU 19A causes the image forming unit 20 to form the Nth image corresponding to the value of the variable N. Then, the Nth image is transferred onto the recording medium P corresponding to the value of the variable N at the time of step S304. For example, when the variable N is 1, the CPU 19A forms the first image and transfers the first image onto the first recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 2, the CPU 19A forms the second image and transfers the second image onto the second recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 6, the CPU 19A forms the sixth image and transfers it onto the sixth recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 7, the CPU 19A forms the seventh image and transfers it onto the seventh recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 8, the CPU 19A forms the eighth image and transfers it onto the eighth recording medium P.

[0131] Then, in the present embodiment, the recording medium P to which the N-th image is transferred has the toner image fixed by the fixing unit 40 and is discharged by the discharge unit 16 of the image forming apparatus 10. Then, the CPU proceeds to step S306.

[0132] Next, in step S306, the CPU 19A further uses the imaging device 92 to image the Nth recording medium P with the toner image fixed thereon, and stores the imaged data in the RAM 19B. In addition, the CPU 19A stores in the RAM 19B the relationship with the gripper 56 that conveyed the Nth recording medium P. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S308.

[0133] Next, the CPU 19A compares the value of N with a preset value in step S308. If the value of N is smaller than the preset value, a positive determination is made in step S308, and the process proceeds to step S310. On the other hand, if the value of N is larger than the preset value, a negative determination is made in step S308, and the process proceeds to step S316.

[0134] Next, in step S310 , the CPU 19A increments the variable N (increases the value of the variable N by 1). Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S312 .

[0135] Next, in step S312, the CPU 19A substitutes the value obtained by repeatedly subtracting 6 from the value of the variable N until it becomes less than 7 into the variable L. For example, when the variable N is 1, 1 is substituted into the variable L, and when the variable N is 6, 6 is substituted into the variable L. In addition, when the variable N is 8, the value 2 obtained by subtracting 6 from 8 is substituted into the variable L. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S314.

[0136] Next, in step S314, the CPU 19A causes the gripping body 56 corresponding to the value of the variable L to grip the Nth recording medium P transmitted from the storage section 12. For example, when the variable N is 2, the CPU 19A causes the second gripping body 56B to grip the second recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 6, the CPU 19A causes the sixth gripping body 56F to grip the sixth recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 7, the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the seventh recording medium P, and when the variable N is 8, the CPU 19A causes the second gripping body 56B to grip the eighth recording medium P. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S304.

[0137] Then, in step S316, the CPU 19A displays the information stored in the RAM 19B on the display unit 60. Figure 6 The correspondence relationship between the N types of images from the first image to the Nth image and the holding body 56 that conveys the recording medium P on which the images are formed is shown. Then, the CPU 19A ends the associating step.

[0138] In addition, if Fig. 9 As shown, in this modification, the display unit 60 shows the colorant image fixed on the recording medium P and the holding body 56 that conveys the recording medium P. The display of the holding body 56 that conveys the recording medium P in the display of the display unit 60 is the identification information 72 of this modification. In other words, the CPU 19A associates the image fixed on the recording medium P conveyed by each of the plurality of holding bodies 56 with the identification information 72 that identifies each of the holding bodies 56 and displays them on the display unit 60. In addition, Fig. 9 The lead lines (symbol "...") in the figures indicate omission.

[0139] Here, the user compares the image data of the recording medium P displayed on the display unit 60 with the identification information 72, while checking the deformation of the Nth image of the recording medium P. More specifically, the user compares the image data of the recording medium P with the identification information 72. Fig. 9 The image shown in the display unit 60 is displayed to confirm whether the toner image is deformed. For example, in this embodiment, Fig. 9 As shown in the figure, since the toner images of "2", "8", and "14" (the second image, the eighth image, and the fourteenth image) are fixed as deformed toner images, the user determines that the second gripper 56B conveying the recording medium P is defective. In this way, the user can identify the defective gripper 56 by checking the toner images and the identification information 72 displayed on the display unit 60.

[0140] In addition, the procedure for coping with a malfunction in this modification is the same as that in the first embodiment. In addition, according to this modification, the following functions and effects can be obtained.

[0141] (Function and Effect)

[0142] In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the CPU 19A associates the image formed on the recording medium P conveyed by each of the plurality of gripping bodies 56 with the identification information 72 for identifying each of the gripping bodies 56 and displays the image on the display unit 60. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the user can associate the recording medium P with the gripping body 56 by displaying the image and the identification information 72 on the display unit 60. That is, in the case where any of the plurality of gripping bodies 56 is a defective gripping body 56, the user can identify the defective gripping body 56.

[0143] 〈Other Modifications〉

[0144] Furthermore, in the above description, there are defects in the second gripping body 56B, such as Figure 6 As shown, deformation occurs in the second, eighth, and fourteenth images. Here, in the above description, the user identifies the defective gripper 56 by checking the toner image and the identification information 70, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the user may also determine that the image is deformed every sixth sheet from the second sheet based on the toner images of the discharged second, eighth, and fourteenth recording media P, and determine that the second gripper 56B is defective.

[0145] In the first embodiment, a serial number starting from 1 is added to the toner image as identification information 70, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. That is, as far as the identification information 70 is concerned, as long as the user can recognize which recording medium P is transported by each of the plurality of gripping bodies 56, the identification information 70 is not limited to numbers, and can also be set to symbols, etc.

[0146] In the description of the first modification, the toner image is formed without including the identification information 70, but the technology of the present modification is not limited thereto. That is, in the first modification, the toner image including the identification information 70 may be formed on the recording medium P. In other words, both the identification information 70 and the identification information 72 may be displayed on the display unit 60.

[0147] Next, refer to Fig.10 and Fig.11 A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0148] [Second embodiment]

[0149] (Association Mode)

[0150] First, refer appropriately Fig.10 and Fig.11 , the operation performed by the CPU 19A of the control unit 19 in the association mode is described. The association mode of this embodiment is the same as the association mode of the first embodiment, and the CPU 19A executes the association step and the failure response step. In the association mode, a larger number of recording media P than the number of gripping bodies 56 (six in this embodiment) is prepared in advance in the storage unit 12. Then, the CPU 19A executes Fig.10 In the present embodiment, the toner image is formed without including the identification information 70, unlike the first embodiment.

[0151] First, in step S402, the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the first recording medium P. In addition, in step S402, the CPU 19A prepares variables N and L in the RAM 19B. In addition, the variables N and L are both integer variables. Then, the CPU 19A substitutes 1 into the variables N and L to initialize the variable N. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S404.

[0152] Next, the CPU 19A causes the image forming unit 20 to form a toner image corresponding to the value of the variable N in step S404. Then, the toner image is transferred onto the recording medium P corresponding to the value of the variable N at the time of step S404. For example, when the variable N is 1, the CPU 19A forms the first image and transfers the first image to the first recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 2, the CPU 19A forms the second image and transfers the second image to the second recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 6, the CPU 19A forms the sixth image and transfers it to the sixth recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 7, the CPU 19A forms the seventh image and transfers it to the seventh recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 8, the CPU 19A forms the eighth image and transfers it to the eighth recording medium P.

[0153] Next, in step S406, the CPU 19A causes the imaging device 92 to capture a recording medium P on which a toner image corresponding to the value of the variable N is generated, and stores the captured image of the recording medium P in the RAM 19B. Figure 6 The recording medium P imaged by the imaging device 92 is ejected from the ejection unit 16 of the image forming apparatus 10. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S408.

[0154] Next, the CPU 19A compares the value of N with a preset value in step S408. If the value of N is smaller than the preset value, a positive determination is made in step S408, and the process proceeds to step S410. On the other hand, if the value of N is larger than the preset value, a negative determination is made in step S408, and the process proceeds to step S416.

[0155] Next, in step S410 , the CPU 19A increments the variable N (increases the value of the variable N by 1). Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S412 .

[0156] Next, in step S412, the CPU 19A substitutes the value obtained by repeatedly subtracting 6 from the value of the variable N until it becomes less than 7 into the variable L. For example, when the variable N is 1, 1 is substituted into the variable L, and when the variable N is 6, 6 is substituted into the variable L. In addition, when the variable N is 8, the value 2 obtained by subtracting 6 from 8 is substituted into the variable L. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S414.

[0157] Next, in step S414, the CPU 19A causes the gripping body 56 corresponding to the value of the variable L to grip the Nth recording medium P transmitted from the storage unit 12. For example, when the variable N is 2, the CPU 19A causes the second gripping body 56B to grip the second recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 6, the CPU 19A causes the sixth gripping body 56F to grip the sixth recording medium P. Also, for example, when the variable N is 7, the CPU 19A causes the first gripping body 56A to grip the seventh recording medium P, and when the variable N is 8, the CPU 19A causes the second gripping body 56B to grip the eighth recording medium P. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S404.

[0158] Then, in step S416, the CPU 19A compares the N types of image data taken by the camera device 92 from the first to the Nth image stored in the RAM 19B to determine whether there is a defect in the grip 56. Figure 6 As shown in the figure, when the toner images of the second recording medium P, the eighth recording medium P, and the fourteenth recording medium P are fixed in a deformed state, the CPU 19A determines that the second gripping body 56B conveying the recording medium P is defective. In this way, when the CPU 19A determines that there is deformation in the toner image captured by the camera 92, it identifies the gripping body 56 that has a defect by checking the gripping body 56 conveying the recording medium P on which the image is formed. In addition, the CPU 19A stores the information that the gripping body 56 has a defect in the RAM 19B.

[0159] Next, the CPU 19A of this embodiment performs Fig.11Perform the following adverse response steps as shown.

[0160] (Steps to deal with adverse events)

[0161] First, the CPU 19A checks whether there is a defective gripping body 56 in step S502. More specifically, the information specifying the defective gripping body 56 is checked in RAM 19B. Then, when the CPU 19A determines that there is a defective gripping body 56 stored in RAM 19B, it makes an affirmative determination in step S502 and proceeds to step S504. On the other hand, when the CPU 19A determines that there is no defective gripping body 56 stored in RAM 19B, it makes a negative determination in step S502 and ends the process.

[0162] Next, in step S504, the CPU 19A displays the number of the defective gripping body 56 on the display unit 60. In the above example, since the CPU 19A determines that the second gripping body 56B is defective, "2" as the number of the gripping body 56 is displayed on the display unit 60. In other words, when the CPU 19A identifies the defective gripping body 56, it displays the identification information 72 of the defective gripping body 56 on the display unit 60. Then, the CPU 19A proceeds to step S506.

[0163] Next, the CPU 19A determines whether to continue printing in step S506. More specifically, the CPU 19A determines whether to accept a print job for forming another image. This determination may be based on a pre-set setting, or may be accepted by an instruction input by the user. Then, if the CPU 19A makes a negative determination in step S506, the process proceeds to step S508. On the other hand, if the CPU 19A makes an affirmative determination in step S506, the process proceeds to step S512.

[0164] Then, when entering step S508, the CPU 19A receives an instruction to replace the defective gripping body 56. Then, when receiving an instruction to replace the defective gripping body 56, the CPU 19A makes an affirmative determination and enters step S510. On the other hand, when not receiving an instruction to replace the defective gripping body 56 (including receiving an instruction not to replace), the CPU 19A makes a negative determination and ends a series of processes.

[0165] Then, when entering step S510, CPU19A prohibits accepting print jobs that form other images. In addition, in step S510, CPU19A stops the conveying unit 50a at a position to replace the defective gripping body 56. More specifically, CPU19A rotates the chain 51 of the conveying unit 50a so that the operator can replace the defective second gripping body 56B received in step S502. In other words, when CPU19A recognizes that there is a defective gripping body 56, it stops the chain 51 at a position where the defective gripping body 56 can be replaced. Then, CPU19A ends a series of processes.

[0166] On the other hand, when entering step S512, CPU19A allows acceptance of print jobs for forming other images. In addition, in step S512, CPU19A executes print jobs for forming other images by causing the conveying unit 50a to convey the recording medium P using the gripping body 56 other than the defective gripping body 56. In the above example, CPU19A executes the print job by conveying the recording medium P using the other five gripping bodies 56 except the second gripping body 56B. In other words, when CPU19A identifies the defective gripping body 56, it conveys the recording medium P using the other gripping bodies 56 except the defective gripping body 56. Then, CPU19A ends a series of processes.

[0167] In the present embodiment, in step S504 , step S510 , or step S512 , CPU 19A may display on display unit 60 a message or the like prompting replacement of defective gripping body 56 .

[0168] According to the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the following operations and effects can be obtained.

[0169] (Function and Effect)

[0170] In the image forming apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the CPU 19A identifies a defective gripper 56 based on the association information between the plurality of grippers 56 and the recording medium P and the measurement result of the measurement device. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of this embodiment, a defective gripper 56 can be automatically identified.

[0171] In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when the defective grip 56 is identified, the CPU 19A displays the identification information 72 of the defective grip 56 on the display unit 60. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when the defective grip 56 is identified, the user can be made aware of the defect of the grip 56 displayed on the display unit 60.

[0172] In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when the CPU 19A identifies the defective gripping body 56, it uses a gripping body 56 other than the defective gripping body 56 to convey the recording medium P. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, even when the defective gripping body 56 is recognized, image formation can be continued.

[0173] In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when the CPU 19A recognizes that there is a defective gripping body 56, the CPU 19A stops the chain 51 at a position where the defective gripping body 56 can be replaced. Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the replacement operation of the defective gripping body 56 is easier than in a case where the chain 51 is stopped without determining the stop position of the gripping body 56 when the defective gripping body 56 is identified.

[0174] 〈Other Modifications〉

[0175] In the above description, when the CPU 19A specifies that there is a defective gripping body 56 in step S504, the display unit 60 displays the defective gripping body 56, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to set the mode of entering step S506 without displaying the defective gripping body 56 on the display unit 60.

[0176] [Other embodiments]

[0177] In addition, in the above description, the CPU 19A gives different toner images to the recording medium P, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. That is, it is also possible to set a mode in which all the gripping bodies 56 convey the recording medium P formed with the same toner image. In this case, the user can also determine which gripping body 56 has a defect by confirming that the toner image is deformed for each number of gripping bodies 56 starting from the Nth recording medium P that first has a defect among the discharged recording media P.

[0178] In the above description, the image forming device 10 includes the camera 92 , but the technology of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, when the user associates in the association mode of the first embodiment, the image forming device 10 may not include the camera 92 .

[0179] In the above description, the image forming unit 20 forms a toner image on a recording medium P such as paper according to the instruction of the CPU 19A, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. That is, as in the above description, as long as it is an image forming device that uses a plurality of gripping bodies 56 to convey the recording medium P, the image forming method may be any method. For example, any image forming method such as an electrophotographic method, an inkjet method, and an offset printing method may be used.

[0180] In these modified examples as well, the same operations and effects as those described above can be obtained.

[0181] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, anyone with common knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention belongs should understand that various modification examples or application examples can be thought of within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and these modification examples or application examples are of course understood to belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

[0182] (Note) (((1)))

[0184] An image forming system comprising:

[0185] A conveying device, wherein a plurality of holding bodies are arranged on a surrounding member, and the medium held by the holding bodies is conveyed as the surrounding member surrounds;

[0186] a forming device that forms an image on the medium transported by the transport device; and

[0187] processor,

[0188] The processor starts image formation by the forming device from a medium held by a specific holding body among the plurality of holding bodies in the association mode. (((2)))

[0190] An image forming system according to (((1))), wherein:

[0191] It also has a display unit.

[0192] The processor associates the image formed on the medium transferred by each of the plurality of holders with identification information for identifying each of the holders and displays the image on the display unit. (((3)))

[0194] The image forming system according to (((1))) or (((2))), wherein:

[0195] The processor attaches identification information for identifying each of the plurality of holders to each of the media for image formation by the forming device, and causes each of the plurality of holders associated with the identification information to transmit the medium to which the identification information is attached. (((4)))

[0197] The image forming system according to (((2))) or (((3))), wherein:

[0198] The processor, when receiving an instruction to exclude the designated holding body, transmits a medium using another holding body except the designated holding body. (((5)))

[0200] The image forming system according to (((2))) or (((3))), wherein:

[0201] When receiving an instruction to replace the specific holding body, the processor stops the surrounding member at a position where the specific holding body can be replaced. (((6)))

[0203] The image forming system according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))), wherein:

[0204] The device further comprises a measuring device, the measuring device being arranged on the downstream side of the conveying device in the conveying path of the medium and measuring the medium on which the image is formed,

[0205] The processor identifies the defective holding body based on the association information between the plurality of holding bodies and the medium and the measurement result of the measurement device. (((7)))

[0207] An image forming system according to (((6))), wherein:

[0208] It also has a display unit.

[0209] When the processor identifies the defective holding body, the processor displays identification information of the defective holding body on the display unit. (((8)))

[0211] The image forming system according to (((6))) or (((7))), wherein:

[0212] When the processor identifies the defective holding body, the processor transfers a medium using another holding body other than the defective holding body. (((9)))

[0214] The image forming system according to (((6))) or (((7))), wherein:

[0215] When the processor recognizes that there is the defective holding body, the processor stops the surrounding member at a position where the defective holding body can be replaced.

[0216] According to the image forming system of (((1))), in the image forming system including the transport device having a plurality of grippers, it is possible to associate the medium on which the image is formed with the grippers that grip the medium.

[0217] According to the image forming system of (((2))), the user can associate the medium with the grip by displaying the image and identification information on the display unit.

[0218] According to the image forming system of (((3))), the image and identification information formed on the medium enable the user to associate the medium with the grip.

[0219] According to the image forming system of (((4))), when receiving an instruction to exclude a designated holding body, the image forming system can continue forming an image.

[0220] According to the image forming system of (((5))), it is easier to replace the designated holding body than in a case where the surrounding member stops without determining the stop position of the holding body when an instruction to replace a specific holding body is received.

[0221] According to the image forming system of (((6))), a defective holding body can be automatically identified.

[0222] According to the image forming system of (((7))), when a defective grip is identified, the user can be made aware of the defect of the grip displayed on the display unit.

[0223] According to the image forming system of (((8))), even when the presence of a defective gripping body is recognized, image formation can be continued.

[0224] According to the image forming system of (((9))), the defective gripping body can be replaced more easily than when the defective gripping body is identified and the stop position of the gripping body is not determined and the surrounding member is stopped.

Claims

1. An image forming system, characterized in that: have: A conveying device, wherein a plurality of holding bodies are arranged on a surrounding member, and the medium held by the holding bodies is conveyed as the surrounding member surrounds; a forming device for forming an image on the medium transported by the transport device; as well as processor, The processor starts image formation by the forming device from a medium held by a specific holding body among the plurality of holding bodies in the association mode.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein: It also has a display unit. The processor associates the image formed on the medium transferred by each of the plurality of holders with identification information for identifying each of the holders and displays the image on the display unit.

3. The image forming system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processor attaches identification information for identifying each of the plurality of holders to each of the media for image formation by the forming device, and causes each of the plurality of holders associated with the identification information to transmit the medium to which the identification information is attached.

4. The image forming system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The processor, when receiving an instruction to exclude the designated holding body, transmits a medium using another holding body except the designated holding body.

5. The image forming system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: When receiving an instruction to replace the specific holding body, the processor stops the surrounding member at a position where the specific holding body can be replaced.

6. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The device further comprises a measuring device, the measuring device being arranged on the downstream side of the conveying device in the conveying path of the medium and measuring the medium on which the image is formed, The processor identifies the defective holding body based on the association information between the plurality of holding bodies and the medium and the measurement result of the measurement device.

7. The image forming system according to claim 6, wherein: It also has a display unit. When the processor identifies the defective holding body, the processor displays identification information of the defective holding body on the display unit.

8. The image forming system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: When the processor identifies the defective holding body, the processor transfers a medium using another holding body other than the defective holding body.

9. The image forming system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: When the processor recognizes that there is the defective holding body, the processor stops the surrounding member at a position where the defective holding body can be replaced.

Images